Cozy Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour Recipe for Winter Nights

Picture this: the comforting warmth of cinnamon, the rich sweetness of maple syrup, and the smooth smokiness of whiskey swirling together in a chilled glass. The first time I made this Cozy Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour, it was a crisp winter evening, and I was looking for something to sip while the snowflakes danced outside my window. One sip and I was hooked—the warmth of the whiskey, the subtle tang of lemon, and the aromatic embrace of cinnamon created a drink that felt like the perfect companion to a cozy blanket and a crackling fire. Honestly, it’s the kind of drink that makes you slow down, savor the moment, and smile. My friends couldn’t get enough of it either—it’s become a staple for our winter gatherings. Trust me when I say, this recipe is a keeper, and you’re going to love sharing it with your favorite people, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for winter: With warm cinnamon and sweet maple, this cocktail is ideal for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
• Quick & easy: You can whip this up in just a few minutes, making it ideal for last-minute entertaining.
• No fancy ingredients: Everything used in this recipe is easy to find and might already be in your kitchen.
• Balanced flavors: The tartness of fresh lemon juice perfectly complements the sweetness of maple syrup and the spiced notes of cinnamon.
• A crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet night in, this drink is always a hit.
• Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste—add more maple for sweetness or adjust the whiskey to your preferred strength.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and the touch of cinnamon that makes it feel like a warm hug in a glass. It’s not just a whiskey sour—it’s a winter-inspired twist that elevates a classic cocktail into something unforgettable. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a drink that’s both delicious and easy to make?

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Cozy Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is all about striking the perfect balance of flavors while keeping things simple. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bourbon or whiskey: The star of the show! Pick your favorite brand, but I personally love using a smooth, slightly smoky bourbon for this recipe.
• Fresh lemon juice: Don’t skimp on this—it’s the secret to the tangy brightness that balances the drink.
• Maple syrup: Use real maple syrup for the best flavor. Trust me, it’s worth it. The rich sweetness is perfect for winter cocktails.
• Ground cinnamon: A pinch goes a long way in adding warmth and depth. (You can also use cinnamon sticks for garnish.)
• Angostura bitters: Just a couple of dashes enhance the complexity of flavor.
• Ice cubes: Essential for chilling your drink to perfection.
• Cinnamon sticks: Optional, but they make for a beautiful garnish and add a hint of extra spice.
• Orange peel: A twist adds a fresh citrusy aroma on the top.

These ingredients are simple but pack a punch when combined. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice to suit your palate—it’s all about making it your own.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy bar setup for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cocktail shaker: A mason jar with a lid works, too, if you don’t have a shaker.
• Jigger or small measuring cup: Helps get the perfect ratios.
• Citrus juicer: A handheld juicer makes squeezing lemons so much easier.
• Strainer: To keep the ice and pulp out of your drink.
• Glassware: A classic rocks glass is ideal, but any sturdy glass will work.

If you don’t have a strainer, you can carefully pour the cocktail while holding the ice back with a spoon. No need to overthink it—just use what you have!

Preparation Method

1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Squeeze the juice from one fresh lemon (you’ll need about 2 tablespoons or 30 ml). Set it aside.
2. Measure out 2 ounces (60 ml) of your favorite bourbon or whiskey. Add it to your cocktail shaker.
3. Add 1 ounce (30 ml) of real maple syrup to the shaker. If you like your drinks sweeter, you can increase this to 1 ½ ounces (45 ml).
4. Sprinkle in a pinch of ground cinnamon (about ⅛ teaspoon). This is what gives the drink its cozy, winter flavor.
5. Add a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters to the mix—this adds depth and complexity.
6. Fill your shaker with ice cubes, then close it tightly and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the shaker feels ice-cold.
7. Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. The strainer helps keep the drink smooth and free of any cinnamon bits.
8. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a twist of orange peel. If you’re feeling fancy, you can rub the orange peel around the rim of the glass for extra aroma.

Take a sip and let the comforting flavors of cinnamon and maple whisk you away to a winter wonderland. Cheers!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Cozy Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t cut it—the fresh stuff is key for the tartness and brightness of the cocktail.
• Shake vigorously: Don’t be shy! A good shake is what blends the flavors and ensures your drink is chilled to perfection.
• Don’t skip the strainer: Ground cinnamon can clump, so straining the drink is super important for a smooth texture.
• Adjust sweetness: If you’re not a fan of sweet cocktails, start with half the maple syrup and add more to taste.
• Choose quality whiskey: The better the whiskey, the better the cocktail. A mid-range bourbon works well—no need to break the bank.
• Experiment with garnishes: If you want to make it extra festive, consider adding star anise or a sprinkle of grated nutmeg on top.

Remember, making cocktails is part science and part art—don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your taste!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Spiced Rum Version: Swap out the bourbon for spiced rum to add a tropical twist to this cozy cocktail.
• Apple Cider Whiskey Sour: Replace the lemon juice with fresh apple cider for an even more autumnal flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Use a low-carb maple syrup alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the whiskey and use a combination of apple cider and sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail.
• Extra Spicy: Add a dash of nutmeg or clove for additional warmth and depth.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own personalized version of this winter cocktail!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Cozy Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is best served immediately after preparing, while it’s still cold and fresh. Here’s how to make it shine:

• Serving temperature: Serve chilled over ice for the perfect balance of warm spices and cool refreshment.
• Presentation: Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a twist of orange peel for a touch of elegance.
• Pairings: This cocktail pairs beautifully with snacks like candied pecans, sharp cheddar cheese, or even a slice of spiced gingerbread.
• Storage: If you want to prep ahead, mix the whiskey, maple syrup, cinnamon, and bitters and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add fresh lemon juice and ice just before serving.
• Reheating tips: If making a batch for a party, you can keep the mixture warm (minus the ice) and serve it as a hot toddy version.

The flavors of this cocktail mellow and blend beautifully if left to sit for a short while, making it even more delightful.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at what you’re sipping on:

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving.
• Carbohydrates: About 12 grams, mostly from the maple syrup.
• Health benefits: Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, and cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. Maple syrup offers a natural sweetness with a bit of calcium and magnesium.
• Dietary considerations: Naturally gluten-free, but check the labels on your whiskey and maple syrup to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
• Allergens: Be cautious with cinnamon if you have any allergies to it, and verify the whiskey ingredients for any potential sensitivities.

While this cocktail is a treat, it’s nice to know it has a few redeeming qualities when it comes to nutrition!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a drink that wraps you in the warmth and comfort of a winter night, this Cozy Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is it. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or hosting a holiday gathering, this cocktail will make every sip feel special. I love how the cinnamon and maple revive the classic whiskey sour, turning it into something truly unique and seasonally perfect.

I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative—try adjusting the flavors to make it your own, share it with loved ones, or enjoy it solo with a good book by the fire. Let me know in the comments how you made this recipe yours, and don’t forget to share it with your friends. Trust me, this is one cocktail you’ll want to sip on all winter long!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of whiskey?

Absolutely! While bourbon is my favorite for this recipe, you can use rye or even Canadian whiskey for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I make this drink in larger batches?

Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix them in a pitcher. Shake or stir with ice before serving.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can substitute with honey or simple syrup, though the maple adds a distinctive flavor that’s hard to beat.

How can I make this cocktail less strong?

To lighten it up, reduce the amount of whiskey to 1 ounce and add a splash of soda water or tonic after mixing.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

You can mix the whiskey, maple syrup, cinnamon, and bitters ahead of time and refrigerate. Add lemon juice and ice just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

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